2006 Audi A3 vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP) has 28 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 467 kg more than 2006 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm) has 98 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Audi A3. (280 Nm). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Audi A3. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2006 Audi A3 has manual transmission. 2006 Audi A3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Audi A3 | 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Audi | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | A3 | 450 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1947 cc | 4520 cc |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 378 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 211 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1742 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4970 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2870 mm |
